Rewind: Javier Vazquez

Jan 13, 2013

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Javier Vazquez had a UFC contract in his fax machine the night he went out to defend his King of the Cage lightweight title against Alberto Crane in 2003. He promised a promoter he'd do the fight, and he more than stuck to his word.

In what ESPN.com called the most inspiring MMA performance of the decade, Vazquez went the distance with Crane despite tearing his ACL in the first round. He fell every time he tried to punch. He never fought under that UFC contract.

It's emotional for Vazquez to watch that fight still today. It represents a visceral turning point for a gifted grappler and once buzzed-about contender.

Sunday on the Sherdog Radio Network "Rewind," Vazquez joins host Jack Encarnacao in the Sitdown to chart his journey in MMA and jiu-jitsu, an under-appreciated run. And, more than a year after finally making his UFC debut, "Showtime" makes an announcement about his future.